Get Newsletter

Burgess in 'underwhelming' debut

Sam Burgess endured an underwhelming debut for England Saxons as he failed to showcase his credentials for a Six Nations call-up in his team's 18-9 victory over the Ireland Wolfhounds on Friday.

Burgess in 'underwhelming' debutWith England head coach Stuart Lancaster watching on at Irish Independent Park in Cork, Burgess produced several errors in the first half before becoming an increasingly anonymous figure after the break.

The Bath inside centre, who is just eight matches into his union career after changing codes, failed to make any meaningful impact that may have ended talk that he could play a role in England's forthcoming Six Nations campaign.

But the former Rugby League superstar, who harbours dreams of playing in this year's World Cup, was hardly alone in failing to grab his opportunity as the Saxons toiled against a strong Wolfhounds line-up with openside Matt Kvesic, substitute Maro Itoje and No.8 Thomas Waldrom among the few to impress.

Flyhalf Henry Slade and wing Christian Wade crossed and Slade kicked two penalties in a match that saw the set-piece splutter all match, but the ability to seize victory in a difficult assignment will please the English management.

All of the home side's points came from the boot of Ian Madigan, who landed three penalties in a bitterly cold night.

Sean O'Brien, alongside Gordon D'Arcy and Keith Earls one of three British and Irish Lions picked by the Wolfhounds, made a successful return from shoulder surgery in his first outing since September, but whether it will be enough to earn a starting spot in the Six Nations opener against Italy remains to be seen.

AFP

ADVERTISEMENT

Join free

Boks Office | Episode 32 | How To Win Europe

Round 12 Highlights | PWR 2024/25

Bristol Bears vs Gloucester-Hartpury | PWR 2024/25 | Full Match Replay

Toshiba Brave Lupus Tokyo vs Kobelco Kobe Steelers | Japan Rugby League One 2024/25 | Full Match

Edinburgh vs Brython | Celtic Challenge 2024/25 | Match Highlights

Yokohama Canon Eagles vs Toshiba Brave Lupus Tokyo | Japan Rugby League One 2024/25 | Full Match Replay

Global Schools Challenge | Day 2 Replay

AUSTRALIA vs USA behind the scenes | HSBC SVNS Embedded | E04

Write A Comment